Back by popular demand, the Aspen Institute presents Sharing Shakespeare, a moderated, roundtable discussion series that takes place one night a month for 6 months.  Beginning in October, the 2026-27 session will explore one of Shakespeare’s problem plays, Measure for Measure.  

We will focus the entire six-month series on Measure for Measure, inviting participants to read one act per month and share their insights and questions as we work toward a deeper understanding of one of Shakespeare’s most provocative and morally complex plays.

Volunteer moderators will lead participants through lively discussions dissecting the intriguing scenes and characters in Measure for Measure while uncovering themes that still resonate today. 

Dates and Times: Monday nights from 6:00–8:00 pm MT October 19, November 16, December 14, January 11, February 8, March 8.

Fee: $195, includes all sessions, light refreshments, and reading materials. Scholarships available.

Registration: To register, please click here.

Please email [email protected] for more information.

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Module 1

Monday, October 19
Measure for Measure: Act I and Introduction
Measure for Measure, considered a “problem play,” features Duke Vincentio, a leader who recognizes that his realm is becoming too permissive, appoints Angelo, a morally strict official to take the reins while Vincentio takes a leave of absence from the city only to return, in disguise, as a friar. Angelo, determined to return order to the chaos, sentences Claudio to death for the crime of adultery, in Claudio’s case impregnating his fiancée, Juliet. Isabella, Claudio’s sister and a novice nun, is subjected to Angelo’s overtures and outright request to corrupt her to save her brother. This play’s themes include moral dilemma, leadership, justice, morality, sexual lust, mercy, redemption…. Everything anyone could want in a play. Join us for a lively discussion of a play that purports to be a “comedy” but may be something darker.
Measure for Measure, Overview and Act I moderated by Ted Frisbie and Sandi Kister

Monday, November 16
Measure for Measure, Act II moderated by Peter Waanders and Morgan Walsh

Monday, December 14
Measure for Measure, Act III moderated by Donna Grauer and Cathy O’Connell

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Module 2

Monday, January 11
Measure for Measure, Act IV moderated by Mike McGowan and TBC

Monday, February 8
Measure for Measure, Act V moderated by Julie Comins and TBC

Monday, March 8
Measure for Measure, Wrap up moderated by Ken and Carol Adelman